Health Insurance Guide for New Immigrants in Toronto (2025)

For newcomers arriving in Toronto, one of the most important parts of settling down is understanding how healthcare works in Canada. Unlike many countries where private insurance dominates the system, Canada offers public healthcare coverage that is free at the point of use — but there are conditions, waiting periods (in some provinces), and gaps that new immigrants need to be aware of.

This 2025 guide breaks down everything you need to know about getting health insurance in Toronto as a new immigrant — from how to apply for OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan), to what’s covered, and what to do while you wait or if you’re not eligible.

What is OHIP?

OHIP stands for Ontario Health Insurance Plan, which is the publicly funded health care plan for residents of Ontario. Toronto, being the capital of Ontario, follows OHIP guidelines for providing health coverage.

The program pays for a wide range of medical services including hospital visits, doctor appointments, and emergency care — but it does not cover everything. It is crucial to understand what’s covered and what isn’t, especially if you’re coming from a country where health services work very differently.

Who Is Considered a Resident Under OHIP?

To qualify for OHIP, you must meet the Ontario residency requirements. Generally, you are eligible if you meet the following criteria:

• You are physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days in any 12-month period
• You make Ontario your primary place of residence
• You belong to one of the following categories:
  • Permanent Resident (PR)
  • Convention refugee or protected person
  • Some work permit holders (e.g., caregivers, skilled workers)
  • Certain international students with valid study permits

If you meet these requirements, you are eligible to apply for OHIP.

OHIP Coverage in Detail

What is Covered:

• Doctor visits (family doctors and specialists)
• Hospital stays and surgeries
• Diagnostic services such as X-rays and lab tests
• Emergency room treatment
• Maternity and childbirth services
• Mental health care in hospitals

What is NOT Covered:

• Prescription drugs (unless you qualify for special programs like OHIP+ for children)
• Dental care (routine checkups, fillings, extractions)
• Eye exams and glasses for adults
• Cosmetic surgery
• Ambulance services (partial coverage, fees often apply)

Important Note: Children, seniors, and low-income individuals may qualify for additional services under Ontario’s other health programs (e.g., OHIP+, Trillium Drug Program).

Is There Still a 3-Month Waiting Period in 2025?

As of 2025, Ontario no longer enforces the 3-month OHIP waiting period that used to apply to most new residents. This change was made permanent after being temporarily lifted during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Now, you can apply for and receive OHIP coverage immediately after arriving in Ontario, as long as your documents are in order.

How to Apply for OHIP in Toronto (Step-by-Step)

Applying for OHIP is free and fairly straightforward. Here’s a simple breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Gather Your Documents

You will need the following:

• Proof of identity (e.g., passport, Canadian driver’s license)
• Proof of immigration status (e.g., PR card, Confirmation of Permanent Residence, valid work permit)
• Proof of Ontario address (e.g., lease agreement, utility bill, bank statement)

Step 2: Visit a ServiceOntario Centre

Applications must be done in person at an official ServiceOntario location. You can book an appointment or walk in. A full list of locations can be found on the Ontario government website.

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Once submitted, you will receive a health card, which may take a few weeks to arrive by mail. Some applicants get a temporary slip they can use right away.

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Private Insurance: Why You Might Still Need It

Even though OHIP covers many core health services, there are still important gaps. That’s where private health insurance comes in.

You may need private coverage if:

• You are waiting for PR status and not yet eligible for OHIP
• You are in Canada on a visitor or tourist visa
• You want coverage for things OHIP doesn’t cover (dental, vision, prescriptions)

What Private Insurance Can Cover:

• Prescription medications
• Dental checkups and treatments
• Glasses and eye exams
• Ambulance transportation
• Hospital room upgrades
• Mental health counselling outside of hospitals

Best Private Health Insurance Options for Newcomers (2025)

Several insurance companies in Canada offer newcomer-friendly plans. These companies provide short-term and long-term coverage tailored to immigrants, international students, and visitors.

Here are some trusted providers:

Insurance Provider	Type of Coverage	Suitable For
Manulife CoverMe	Health, travel, emergency	PR applicants, visitors
Sun Life	Dental, vision, drug coverage	Long-term immigrants
Blue Cross Canada	Travel and health plans	Tourists, students
Allianz Global Assistance	Emergency health insurance	Visitors and PRs awaiting OHIP
Ingle International	Custom plans for newcomers	Temporary workers, students

Prices typically range from $50 to $200 per month, depending on your age, coverage level, and medical history.

Common Scenarios for New Immigrants

Let’s look at a few real-world examples that many new immigrants face:

Scenario 1: Permanent Resident (Newly Landed)

You arrive in Toronto with your Confirmation of Permanent Residence and lease. You apply for OHIP immediately and get covered without waiting. You also buy private insurance to cover dental and prescription drugs.

Scenario 2: On a Visitor Visa Awaiting PR

You’re in Canada with your family on a visitor visa while your PR is being processed. You are not eligible for OHIP yet, so you must buy private insurance until your status changes.

Scenario 3: International Student

You came to Toronto to study. In most cases, your college or university provides health coverage through their own insurance plan. You may not be eligible for OHIP but are still covered.

Where to Go for Healthcare in Toronto

After getting your insurance sorted, the next step is knowing where to go for care:

Walk-in Clinics

You can visit a walk-in clinic for non-emergency issues. These are great for colds, minor injuries, and prescriptions. Some accept patients without health cards if you’re paying out of pocket or have private insurance.

Family Doctors

You should register with a family doctor. They handle regular checkups, referrals, and overall health management. Use the Health Care Connect program if you need help finding one.

Emergency Rooms

If you’re facing a life-threatening issue, go to the nearest hospital ER. With OHIP, you won’t pay anything upfront. Without OHIP, emergency care can cost hundreds to thousands of dollars — so private insurance is essential in this case.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Can I use my OHIP card anywhere in Canada?

OHIP is for Ontario only, but it can cover emergency services in other provinces. For regular care outside Ontario, you may be charged.

Q2: Do children get free healthcare?

Yes. Children under 24 in Ontario are covered under OHIP+, which includes some prescription drug coverage.

Q3: Can I apply for OHIP online?

No. You must visit a ServiceOntario office in person to apply for your health card.

Q4: I just arrived and don’t have a lease yet. What can I use as proof of address?

Bank statements, official letters from a school, or a letter from a shelter or refugee agency may work. Speak to a ServiceOntario agent for specific guidance.

Final Advice for New Immigrants

Getting your health insurance in place is one of the smartest things you can do in your first few weeks in Toronto. Whether you’re applying for OHIP or buying private insurance while you wait, being protected means avoiding huge medical bills and getting the care you need without stress.

Make sure to:

• Keep all your documents organized
• Apply for OHIP as soon as you’re eligible
• Compare private insurance plans for additional coverage
• Register with a family doctor when possible

The Canadian healthcare system is built to support you, but understanding how to navigate it as a newcomer will give you a head start toward a healthy and secure life in Toronto